The Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini is a fun and delicious twist on two classic treats—chocolate and strawberries—combined into a smooth, fruity cocktail. It brings together the rich, velvety taste of chocolate with the fresh, sweet flavor of strawberries, all shaken up with a little kick to make it a perfect drink for a cozy night in or a special celebration.
I love making this martini when I want something that feels a bit fancy but is actually simple to mix up. Drizzling chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring the martini makes it look extra pretty and tastes amazing right from the first sip. Plus, garnishing with a fresh strawberry always makes it feel like a treat that’s just for me.
This cocktail is a real crowd-pleaser because it hits that sweet spot between dessert and drink. I often serve it alongside a small plate of fresh fruit or a few chocolate-covered nuts to keep the flavors going. It’s one of those drinks that makes any evening feel a little more special and fun, no matter the occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Vanilla-flavored vodka adds a smooth, sweet base. If you don’t have vanilla vodka, plain vodka works fine, or try a strawberry-flavored vodka for extra fruitiness.
Chocolate Liqueur: This gives the drink its rich chocolate taste. Godiva or creme de cacao are great choices. You can substitute with chocolate syrup if needed, but use less cream to keep it smooth.
Strawberry Liqueur or Puree: Strawberry liqueur brings a bright fruity flavor, but fresh strawberry puree (just crushed strawberries) works well too. For a non-alcoholic version, use strawberry juice or syrup.
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: This creates the creamy texture that balances the stronger flavors. Half-and-half is lighter if you prefer a less rich drink.
Chocolate Syrup & Garnishes: Swirling chocolate syrup in the glass makes the cocktail look fancy and adds sweet chocolate notes. A chocolate-dipped strawberry garnish is classic and easy—just melt some chocolate and dip fresh strawberries.
How Do You Get That Pretty Chocolate Swirl Inside the Glass?
The chocolate swirl inside the glass is a simple trick that makes the martini look stylish and tastes great from the first sip. Here’s how to do it:
- Hold the glass at an angle over the sink or a tray.
- Using a spoon or squeeze bottle, slowly drizzle chocolate syrup along the inside, turning the glass slowly to create a swirl or drip pattern.
- Let the syrup settle and set for a minute before pouring in the martini.
- Pour the cocktail gently to avoid disturbing the chocolate lines.
This technique takes just a moment but makes your cocktail feel extra special and elegant.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cocktail shaker – I like using a shaker with a strainer to mix everything smoothly and pour neatly.
- Martini glasses – the classic inside-out style makes the drink feel fancy and perfect for serving.
- Spoon or squeeze bottle – helpful for drizzling chocolate syrup inside the glass to create swirls.
- Small dish for melted chocolate – great for dipping strawberries and preparing the garnish.
- Strawberries – fresh strawberries dipped in melted chocolate for garnish, Easy to prep ahead.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use strawberry-flavored vodka instead of plain for a more intense fruit taste.
- Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist and dairy-free option.
- Add a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier for a citrusy zing.
- Mix in crushed graham crackers on the glass rim for a s’mores vibe.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka (preferably vanilla-flavored)
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur (such as Godiva or creme de cacao)
- 1 oz strawberry liqueur or strawberry puree
- 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tbsp chocolate syrup (for garnish inside glass)
- Fresh strawberries, dipped in melted chocolate, for garnish
- Sugar or edible glitter for rimming the glass (optional)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare, including chilling the glass and garnishing with chocolate-dipped strawberries. The actual shaking and mixing take just a minute or two, making it a quick yet impressive drink to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glasses:
If you like, moisten the rim of your martini glasses with water or simple syrup. Then dip the rim into sugar or edible glitter to add a touch of sparkle. Set your glasses aside to dry a bit while you prepare the drink.
2. Add the Chocolate Swirl and Garnish:
Drizzle chocolate syrup inside each glass, swirling it around to create a pretty marbled look. Then take fresh strawberries dipped halfway in melted chocolate and place one on the rim of each glass for a striking garnish.
3. Mix Your Martini:
Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice cubes. Pour in the vodka, chocolate liqueur, strawberry liqueur or puree, and heavy cream. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the drink is well chilled and has a light frothy texture.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Strain the cocktail into your prepared martini glasses, over the chocolate syrup decoration. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, fruity, and chocolatey flavors all in one sip!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Puree?
Yes! Frozen strawberries work well, just thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid before blending into a puree to avoid watering down the cocktail.
Can I Make This Martini Without Alcohol?
Absolutely! Substitute the vodka and liqueurs with strawberry syrup and chocolate syrup, and use cream or a dairy-free alternative to keep it rich and delicious.
How Should I Store Leftover Cocktail Mix?
If you have any leftover mixture, store it tightly sealed in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir well before serving again, but it’s best freshly made for texture and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Melt Chocolate for Dipping Strawberries?
Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat chocolate in 20-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth. Alternatively, melt over a double boiler on low heat to prevent burning.